As the Maple Leafs head into November, trade is heating up. Insider Nick Kypreos recently suggested that Toronto’s ability to acquire a scoring winger could be limited by the availability of tradable assets, specifically mentioning rookie forward Easton Cowan as a player teams will pass by.
Kypreos writes:
“…But while the Maple Leafs would ideally like to add a scoring winger, their hands are tied by the fact that they don’t have as many assets to trade as those of other teams. Many teams will come to Easton Cowan, which is a non-starter for now.”
The words “a non-starter for now” are crucial here. Kypreos suggests the Leafs are not considering a Cowan trade. That doesn’t necessarily mean they never will. The NHL insider suggests Toronto would rather discuss Ben Danford as a more viable signing, but time will tell when it comes to Cowan’s future.
Jonas Siegel from The Athletics looked at Cowan’s role in the team, but puts Kypreos’ opinion into perspective. Cowan has had promising moments, but with the impending returns of Scott Laughton and Steven Lorentz, Cowan is slated as a healthy scratch. That is the fourth time in fourteen games that he has been left out of the line-up.
Perhaps this is the norm for a prospect making his way in the NHL. That said, Siegel points out that his ice time is inconsistent and he doesn’t have a permanent spot in the lineup yet. Maybe a trip to the Toronto Marlies could provide regular minutes, but if the Leafs are desperate for help, how long will they give Cowan to take the next big step?
At this point, Kypreos seems to be suggesting that there is time. Teams may be calling, but the Leafs aren’t happy with the idea.
Ultimately, the club may have to make a decision, especially if the struggle to find a consistent attack continues.
Next: Joseph Woll “getting close” as Maple Leafs move forward and back
#Cowans #future #Leafs #trade #plans #affect #rookie